Born in Calizon, Bulacan, Dr. Santos earned this AB and MS degrees at the University of the Philippines in 1912 and 1919, respectively. Later in 1922, he earned his doctorate degree in Biochemistry from Yale University, USA.

He was conferred the National Scientist Award in 1983 by being an outstanding educator and eminent scientist in the field of human nutrition and agricultural chemistry. He is well remembered for his deep concern and interest in the improvement of nutrition of the Filipinos, especially in laboring and deprived areas.

Dr. Santos established the anti-beriberi content of sweet potato and demonstrated the food value of this crop. He was among the very first to advocate home gardening, with fruits and vegetables as good source of supplementary vitamins. – Bato Balani